A long-standing commitment to recycled water places Atalaya Golf at the forefront of sustainable golf course management on the Costa del Sol.
We were delighted to welcome a delegation from the ETH Alumni Association of Switzerland at Atalaya Golf for an informative presentation on our 36-hole golf complex and our long-standing experience in sustainable water management. The visit was arranged at the initiative of our member, Erna Karrer-Rüedi, and provided an excellent opportunity to exchange knowledge and discuss the growing importance of water sustainability in golf.
Raul, our Head Greenkeeper, introduced the group to Atalaya Golf’s irrigation practices, explaining how recycled water has been used to irrigate our courses for more than 3 decades. Alongside 12 other golf courses, Atalaya was among the pioneers on the Costa del Sol in adopting this approach, demonstrating a forward-thinking response to the region’s water challenges.
The presentation highlighted the practical experience gained over the years and the importance of adapting golf course management to changing climatic conditions. In a region where water resources are under growing pressure, the use of recycled water represents an essential component of a more sustainable approach to course management, helping to reduce reliance on conventional freshwater resources.
The discussion also explored the future of golf course management across Europe. As climate change affects rainfall patterns and water availability, regions traditionally associated with abundant rainfall, may increasingly need to consider alternative irrigation strategies. These could include greater use of recycled water and the selection of turfgrass varieties better suited to changing environmental conditions.
The presentation was followed by an engaging question-and-answer session, during which Raul answered the visitors’ questions and shared insights into the day-to-day realities of maintaining high-quality golf courses while managing water resources responsibly.
At Atalaya Golf & Country Club, we believe that a commitment to sustainability is built through consistent action, knowledge sharing and a willingness to anticipate future challenges. We are proud to share our experience and contribute to the ongoing conversation about the future of sustainable golf.
